Sean Penn to direct Robert De Niro and Kristen Wiig In The Comedian

We heard rumors about this film back in June but now it's official- Sean Penn's next film THE COMEDIAN will star Robert De Niro as the titular character. Kristen Wiig will also be joining the cast as... a defiant redhead?

The official synopsis-

Jackie Burke (De Niro) is a raging comic who is past his prime. A once loved TV character in his hey day, he clings to any recognition of his former fame in the hope of reviving his now stagnant career. After being sentenced to community service for hitting an audience member in the head with his microphone, Jackie meets Harmony (Wiig), a dazzling and defiant redhead who turns his life sideways.

Not much of a description for Wiig there, but she's proven time and time again how funny she can be. De Niro as well, just check out STARDUST (his last great role!) for proof of that.

FilmNation Entertainment announced today that they will be handling international sales for the drama. The movie was written by Art Linson (INTO THE WILD) and Jeffrey Ross, and will be produced by Art Linson, John Linson, Jon Kilik and Robert De Niro, with Shannon Costello associate producing.

The production is scheduled to start in Spring 2012. Let's hope this is the comeback film De Niro needs.